fb-pixel

Leadership vs. Management: 13 Tactical Differences

by Mark Dreistadt | Apr 3, 2012 | Leadership

I want to talk to you just for a minute about the differences between leadership and management. Often, the terms are used interchangeably, but they are really quite different from one another.

  • A manager’s job is to plan, organize, and coordinate; the leader’s job is to inspire and motivate.
  • The manager administers; the leader innovates.
  • The manager thinks short term; the leader thinks long-term.
  • The manager maintains; the leader develops.
  • A manager focuses on systems and structure; the leader focuses on people.
  • The manager is transactional; the leader is transformational.
  • The manager relies on control; the leader inspires trust.
  • The manager asks how and when; the leader asks what and why.
  • The manager has his or her eye always on the bottom line (and they need to); the leader’s eye is always on the horizon.
  • The manager imitates; the leader originates.
  • The manager accepts the status quo; the leader challenges it.
  • The manager is the classic good soldier; the leader is his or her own person.
  • The manager does things right; the leader does the right thing.

Leaders need to be managers — and — managers need to be leaders. Determine where you are strong and build up your weak side. Never presume because you are a good leader that you are managing well. Neither should you presume that because you are a good manager you are functioning as a good leader. Both skill sets can be learned — and both need to be intentionally cultivated.

Mark Dreistadt

Stay Informed!

Join thousands of subscribers who love our content! Subscribe for the latest insights.

Name(Required)
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.